Are you an Occupational Therapist (OT) or Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) looking to get licensed in Missouri? Navigating the licensing process can seem daunting, but with the right guidance, it can be straightforward and manageable. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process.
Application Checklist
The Missouri Board of Occupational Therapy provides a comprehensive checklist for OT and OTA applicants. Here are the key steps:
- Complete the Application: Fill out the Application for Licensure as an Occupational Therapist or Occupational Therapy Assistant. Ensure you mark the appropriate box for the type of licensure you are seeking and submit the corresponding fee. Payments should be made to the Missouri Board of Occupational Therapy.
- Familiarize Yourself with Missouri Rules and Statutes: Thoroughly review the OT Practice Act and the rules and regulations governing occupational therapy in Missouri. These can be found at Missouri OT Rules and Statutes.
- Fingerprinting: Fingerprinting is required for licensure. Instructions are available on the Missouri Board of Occupational Therapy’s website at Fingerprinting Instructions. Make sure to use the provided 4-digit code.
- Verification of Certification: Request a verification of certification letter from the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). Visit NBCOT to apply for the National Exam and request the necessary documentation.
- Verification of Licensure: If you are currently or were previously licensed in another state, you must complete the Verification of Licensure form and send it to the respective state(s) for completion. The completed form should be returned directly to the Missouri Board office.
- Jurisprudence Exam: Complete and return the Missouri Occupational Therapist Jurisprudence Exam with your application. A passing score of 80% or higher is required. This open-book exam is based on the rules and statutes mentioned earlier.
Additional Instructions
Make sure to follow these additional instructions to avoid any delays in the review of your application:
- Read all instructions thoroughly before completing the forms.
- Ensure the application form is typed or printed legibly in black ink.
- Submit the application fee in the form of a check or money order made payable to the Missouri Board of Occupational Therapy.
- Request that the certifying entity sends verification of your credentials directly to the Missouri Board.
- If you have been licensed, certified, registered, or granted a permit in another state, territory, or country, request verification of your license from those entities.
- Include your Social Security Number (SSN) on the application. The Board will not publicly disclose your SSN without your consent unless permitted by law.
Special Considerations
If you have a disability and require accommodations, notify the Missouri Board of Occupational Therapy in writing at the time of application. Ensure that the notification is received at least 30 days in advance of any scheduled examination date.
Final Steps
Once you have completed all the steps and submitted your application, allow approximately one week for the staff and/or Board to review your completed application file. If approved, you will receive one license. It is essential to keep the Board updated with your current mailing address to receive correspondence and renewal applications.
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